Indian President Draupadi Murmu inaugurated the renowned festival of Dussehra in Mysuru. President Murmu lit the lamp and offered floral tributes to Goddess Chamundeshwari on Chamundi Hills thus declaring the festivities open.
Speaking on the occasion President Murmu said in her address, “Since time immemorial, festivals have been connecting people. The presence of diversity elevates the respect of India. The spiritual heritage of Karnataka includes the legacy of Buddhism, Jainism, Adi Shankaracharya established Sringeri Mutt, Kalaburagi is known as the centre of Sufi saints.”
The President, who is India’s first Adivasi President also invoked the spirit of 12th century social revolutionaries Basavanna, Allama Prabhu, Akka Mahadevi, who founded the ‘Anubhav Mantap’ to eradicate the caste system. The revolutionaries also gave ‘vachanas’ which are still being revered. There were 35 women poets who contributed to vachanas, she President Murmu.
She also spoke about ‘woman empowerment’ which she said is relevant to the event as it were women deities who killed demon kings. “There is a need to empower women more today,” she underlined.
Speaking at the occasion, Karnataka CM Basavaraj Bommaisaid that Karnataka is the first state Murmu is visiting after taking charge as the President.
After two years of muted celebrations, this ear Mysore has been decorated in all its glory on therevered occasion of Dussehra.
